To seed or to seedling…
That is the question
Have you wondered about the best way to start veggies in your garden? If not, you should! Just because the garden center sells carrot and bean seedlings, doesn’t mean that is the best way to grow these plants. Some veggies, like lettuce and beets are really easy (and so much cheaper) to start from seed. And other veggies, like tomatoes and cabbages need to be started from seedlings because of Colorado’s short growing seasons. Here is the scoop on the best way to start your veggies this year, with a couple of helpful hints to get you growing!
Cool season veggies
seeds
Arugula, Beets, Carrots*, Collards, Fava beans, Garlic (plant cloves), Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Mustard greens, Parsnips, Peas*, Potatoes (plant seed potatoes), Radish, Rutabaga, Spinach, Tatsoi, Turnip
seedlings
Artichoke, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Celery, Cauliflower, Fennel, Leek
either
Bok Choy, Broccoli rabe, Chives, Chard, Cilantro, Kale, Kohlrabi, Onions (plant seed, sets, or seedlings), Parsley, Shallots (plant sets or seedlings)
Warm season veggies
seeds
Bush beans*, Corn, Edamame, Pole Beans*, Potatoes
seedlings
Basil, Eggplant, Ground cherry, Okra, Pepper, Tomatillo, Tomato
either
Basil, Cucumber, Melon, Pumpkin, Summer squash, Winter squash
Tips & Tricks
Carrots - Carrots are a bit tough to germinate because they are planted very shallow, don’t like to dry out, and Colorado doesn’t make it easier with it’s dry and windy weather. Place a piece of wood, tarp, burlap etc. on top of newly planted seeds to keep the area from drying out. After 10 days, check daily and when you see sprouts remove the wood and in a few months you will have carrots!
Peas & Beans- Soak seeds overnight before planting, not required but it helps them germinate quicker.
Still not sure where to start? Our custom and comprehensive planting plans provide you with all of the information you need to plant and harvest your garden. Schedule your free 20-minute discovery call to get started.
